Italian White Bean, Cabbage, and Sausage Soup 🍲🇮🇹

This hearty and flavorful soup is a wonderful way to warm up during chilly days while enjoying the robust tastes of Italy. It’s packed with protein from the sausage and beans, a delightful crunch from the cabbage, and a medley of vegetables to provide depth and texture. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week!

Ingredients

For the soup base

• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, based on your preference)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1/2 head of green cabbage, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 cans (15 oz each) of white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.

🌶️ For a richer flavor, use a combination of sweet and spicy sausage!

• In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened (about 5-6 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

• Add the chopped cabbage to the pot, stirring it in until it begins to wilt.

• Return the cooked sausage to the pot and add the diced tomatoes, vegetable or chicken broth, white beans, oregano, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

• Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook uncovered for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally and add water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

🕰️ This soup can be made ahead of time! The flavors get even better after resting overnight in the fridge.

• Once done, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

• Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley!

🌱 A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top can add a wonderful depth of flavor.

Variations

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth. Adding extra mushrooms can give a nice umami flavor. 🍄
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit more heat!
• Hearty: Stir in some diced potatoes or cooked pasta for a heartier soup.
• Herbal boost: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be added just before serving for a burst of freshness.

Enjoy this comforting Italian soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal! 🍞🥗